NHTSA investigating possible fuel leaks on BMW R-series motorcycles

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration has opened a preliminary investigation into an alleged fuel leak problem affecting an estimated 24,000 BMW motorcycles.

A report on the agency's website indicates that NHTSA on Nov. 16 opened a preliminary evaluation to possible fuel leaks on 2005 to 2008 model-year BMW R-series motorcycles.

No recall has been announced. An NHTSA preliminary evaluation is to determine potential severity and frequency of an alleged vehicle problem.

"Numerous owners report to both the Office of Defects Investigation [ODI] and in internet forums, the fuel pump housing cracks in the moulded outlet fitting area of their motorcycle," NHTSA reports. "This housing seals the top of the fuel tank and a crack in this housing can potentially result in a fuel leak."

According to the report, ODI has received 28 complaints and is monitoring Internet forum postings on the issue.

"While riding the vehicle on September 11, 2012, I noticed a strong fuel smell. When I arrived at my destination my left pant leg was soaked in fuel," says one complaint. "After further investigation I determined that the fuel pump housing high-pressure fuel disconnect flange was cracked and leaking fuel down the left fairing in close proximity to the vehicle's left exhaust pipe and ignition."

No crashes or fires have been reported, NHTSA states. Dealernews has contacted BMW for a comment but has not yet received a response.